Characteristics of Gifted Children
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Shows superior reasoning powers and marked ability to handle ideas; can generalize readily from specific facts and can see subtle relationships; has outstanding problem-solving ability.
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Shows persistent intellectual curiosity; asks searching questions; shows exceptional interest in the nature of humankind and the universe.
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Has a wide range of interests, often of an intellectual kind; develops one or more interests to considerable depth.
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Is markedly superior in quality and quantity of written and/or spoken vocabulary; is interested in the subtleties of words and their uses.
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Reads avidly and absorbs books well beyond his or her years.
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Learns quickly and easily and retains what is learned; recalls important details, concepts and principles; comprehends readily.
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Shows insight into arithmetical problems that require careful reasoning and grasps mathematical concepts readily.
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Shows creative ability or imaginative expression in such things as music, art, dance, drama, shows sensitivity and finesse in rhythm, movement, and bodily control.
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Sustains concentration for lengthy periods and shows outstanding responsibility and independence in classroom work.
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Sets realistically high standards for self; is self-critical in evaluation and correcting his or her own efforts.
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Shows initiative and originality in intellectual work; shows flexibility in thinking and considers problems from a number of viewpoints.
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Observes keenly and is responsive to new ideas.
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Shows social poise and an ability to communicate with adults in a mature way.
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Gets excitement and pleasure from intellectual challenge; shows an alert and subtle sense of humor.
ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education